Burial benefits and state support: what you should know

Saying goodbye to a loved one is always a difficult period, accompanied by both emotional pain and unavoidable practical decisions. One of them is preparing for the funeral and covering the related expenses. The state funeral allowance helps cover part of the financial responsibilities. “Vilniaus Laidojimo Namai” aims to ease the burden on relatives by assisting in planning the farewell ceremony, providing information about available support, and handling the necessary documentation. We invite you to learn which funeral services in Vilnius may be financed by state support and how to receive it.

What is a funeral allowance?

A funeral allowance is a one-time state benefit granted upon a person’s death in order to help relatives cover funeral-related expenses. This payment does not depend on whether the deceased was employed or retired — it is granted in all cases when a person who permanently resided in Lithuania passes away. The allowance may be paid to the person who actually arranged the funeral: a family member, close relative, or even another individual. This means that the support is provided based on who assumed responsibility for organizing the funeral, not on the degree of kinship.

Funeral allowance amount in 2025

As of 2025, the funeral allowance in Lithuania amounts to 560 euros. This amount is the same for all recipients and does not depend on the deceased person’s social status or previous income. The allowance is paid as a one-time benefit, and its amount is determined annually by the Government of the Republic of Lithuania, taking into account the state budget possibilities and social protection policy. More information can be found on the official “Sodra” website: Sodra – Funeral Allowance.

Where to apply for a funeral allowance?

The funeral allowance is administered by “Sodra”, so you should first contact the nearest Sodra office or submit an application online via the Sodra electronic system. To receive the allowance, it is necessary to provide the deceased person’s death certificate and an identity document of the person who arranged the funeral. In most cases, funeral service providers such as “Vilniaus Laidojimo Namai” assist relatives in handling the documentation, advise on the required formalities, and ensure that the process runs smoothly. This is especially important in the first days after a loss, when grieving relatives may find it difficult to deal with bureaucratic matters themselves.

Additional state support for funerals

In addition to the funeral allowance, additional state or municipal assistance may be granted in certain cases. For example, municipalities may compensate part of the expenses related to renting a funeral hall, transportation, or grave preparation for low-income residents. If a person dies abroad, relatives may also apply for compensation of the costs of repatriating the remains to Lithuania — such support may amount to up to 2,000 euros. In each case, the amount and conditions of support are determined by the relevant institution, so it is important to check in a timely manner which compensations apply in a specific situation.

How can “Vilniaus Laidojimo Namai” help?

When organizing a funeral, it is important to have a reliable partner who can provide support in both practical and emotional matters. “Vilniaus Laidojimo Namai” offers all necessary funeral services — from handling documentation to preparing the funeral hall and organizing the farewell ceremony. Experienced specialists can provide information about state support, help prepare the necessary applications, and ensure that the farewell takes place with dignity and without additional stress for relatives. The modernly equipped funeral halls are designed to ensure privacy, peace, and a respectful environment where loved ones can focus on a meaningful farewell to the deceased.

Conclusion

The state funeral allowance is an important support measure that helps relatives cover part of the expenses during a time of loss. Knowing where to apply and which documents to submit allows you to receive assistance more quickly and devote more attention to a dignified farewell and preserving the memory of your loved one.